Criminal law is a system that has evolved due to societal needs. This cycle of development begins when laws are enacted at the legislative stage. The laws are then enforced by law enforcement and are later applied by the judiciary. Many times, laws are determined at the legislative stage but are developed in the courtroom.
This writing assignment involves exploring the evolution of criminal laws and their effects on the court system.
Tasks:
Step 1: Research the court system in your state, or the state of your choice, and the history of a crime, tracking its changes in substance and penalties.
Conduct research to provide an explanation of the court structure in your state of choice, the history of a particular crime, its current substance and penalties, and the source for any changes.
Step 2: Write a two-page paper.
In a Microsoft Word document, provide the following information:
A description of the structure of the court system in the state you have chosen
An explanation of the history of the crime you selected in that state, including the date when a law was first enacted against that crime and the first penalty for the crime
A description of the law related to that crime and whether the law has changed since its inception
A description of the court of the state, county, city, district, or region where that particular crime is prosecuted and the current penalties for that crime.
The reason for the evolution of law against that crime, including the driving force behind any changes made to that law, and your opinion on the evolution of the law.
Find two examples of other states that have new programs related to the law you selected that you believe are effective.
Now, create a new law related to that crime, including penalties, treatment options, or supervision (ex: a DUI law that requires 5 days in jail, 200 hours of community service, or 2 months of outpatient treatment upon conviction).
Provide at least 5 sources, including statutes, articles, or books related to the topic.
Step 3: Save and submit your assignment.